Bergedorf was a small city in northern Germany, which issued its own postage stamps during a brief period in the 19th century. This issuance is of particular interest to philatelists due to its short duration and the historical context of German states before unification.
Historical Context
- Location and Sovereignty:
- Bergedorf is situated near Hamburg and was jointly governed by the Free Hanseatic Cities of Hamburg and Lübeck. In the 19th century, prior to German unification, many small states, free cities, and principalities issued their own postage stamps.
- Postal Service:
- The Bergedorf postal service began issuing stamps in 1861, reflecting the area’s administrative needs and the importance of establishing a distinct postal identity in a time of fragmented German states.
The 1861 Issue
Design and Denominations
- Design:
- The design of the Bergedorf stamps featured a simple, yet distinctive, layout. It included a crown at the top, a shield with the coats of arms of Hamburg and Lübeck in the center, and the words “BERGEDORF” and “POSTMARKE”. The design also featured a denomination value.
- Denominations and Colors:
- Five different values were issued:
- ½ Schilling (black)
- 1 Schilling (red)
- 1½ Schilling (blue)
- 2 Schilling (brown)
- 4 Schilling (green)
- Five different values were issued:
Characteristics and Printing
- Paper and Printing Method:
- The stamps were printed on unwatermarked paper and were imperforate, meaning they had to be cut from the sheet manually. They were printed using typography.
- Usage and Validity:
- These stamps were used for a relatively short period, as Bergedorf’s independent postal system ceased when the city was integrated into the Hamburg postal district in 1867. After this, Bergedorf stamps became obsolete.
Philatelic Significance
Collectibility and Rarity
- Scarcity:
- Due to the short period during which these stamps were issued and used, and the limited area they served, Bergedorf stamps are relatively rare. They are highly valued by collectors specializing in German states or classic European stamps.
- Condition and Value:
- The value of Bergedorf stamps can vary significantly based on their condition, with well-preserved, unused examples being particularly prized. Complete sets and covers (envelopes with the stamps used in their original postal context) are especially sought after.
Historical Interest
- Representation of German State History:
- These stamps are a part of the broader philatelic category of German States stamps, representing the pre-unification era of Germany. Collectors often seek Bergedorf stamps as part of a larger collection that includes other German state issues.
Conclusion
The postage stamps of Bergedorf are a fascinating and rare chapter in the history of philately, reflecting a time when many small German states issued their own stamps before the unification of Germany. Their simple yet distinctive design, combined with their historical context and scarcity, makes them a cherished addition to many collections, particularly those focusing on the stamps of the German states.